Presentation

I have to admit I was a trouble maker when I was in grade school (principals still make me nervous).
Even so, I still love visiting schools and talking to students about illustrating books!
My PowerPoint presentation includes samples of how I illustrate a children’s book from initial concept
sketches to the final paintings.  I also share personal stories from my earliest inspirations (teachers), to
becoming an artist, to the joys and challanges of my latest projects.  I talk about where my ideas come from
and show examples of my creative process when working on an illustration.  After my presentation
I will do some drawing demonstrations.  This is a fun, interactive session with the students that I
really enjoy.  I will sign and donate the drawings to the school.
   
Click here to read some nice things people have said about my school visits.
   
 

Session Length

My presentation lasts approximately 40 minutes plus about 10 minutes for answering questions.
It works well to also have 15 minutes after the Q&A to sign books for the students who have
purchased books. It’s nice to be able to personalize the books in front of each student. I can give

up to 4 presentations a day.  Session size varies from 20 to 200 students.
Please allow at least 10 minutes between sessions.
   
 

Grade Level

Pre-K through 8th grade.

   

   
 

Equipment

 ~ A screen for my PowerPoint presentation.

 ~ A stand or small table for my laptop and projector. I will bring my own projector and laptop.

 ~ A table (approx. 3' x 4') up front, by the screen for the drawing. I will bring my own easel, markers, and paper.
   

Suggestions

I've had many absolutely wonderful school visits. Here are a few things that I think make

them successful. Of course these are not all necessary, but I believe they make a difference.

 ~ Familiarize the students with my books before my visit.

 ~ Try not to have different grade levels in a session.  Of course 2nd and 3rd is fine, but maybe

     not 1st and 6th. I try to gear each presentation to the specific grade level.

 ~ Let your students know about my website.  They can see all my books and the many other projects I’ve worked on.

 ~ The room I’ll be presenting in should be one that can get fairly dark for the PowerPoint.  Please try and have all

     sessions in one designated room.  Libraries are my favorite; it's always great to be surrounded by books!
   
 

For availability or any questions please contact me at 612-729-8631 or mwtka@yahoo.com
 
   
 
 

© 2011 Mike Wohnoutka
 
www.mikewohnoutka.com